There’s an App for That: 5 Expectations of Mobile Learners

Mobile communication and computing technology is the most significant change in the way we live, learn, work and play in a century.

The number of mobile phones grew by about 50% in the last three years. There is now a mobile phone for every person on the plant–but not yet evenly distributed. More than 1.2 billion smartphones were sold in 2014.

Tablet sales went from near zero to about 50 million units per quarter in 36 months. Apple sold 210 million iPads through first quarter 2014–and they only have one third of the market.

In January, U.S. mobile traffic surpassed web traffic for the first time. “This trend will likely continue thanks to improved user experience on mobile apps and the expansion of high-speed 4G access,” said comScore’s Andrew Lipsman.

2. Engagement. Mobile learners expect a high engagement social experience.

3. Progress. The potential to learn anywhere and from multiple sources increases demand for competency-based learning where learners show what they know and progress based on demonstrated mastery.

4. Relationships. Mobile learners expect always-on interactive relationships. These new relationship expectations raise the bar for how project teams interact, how online classes are conducted, and how guidance services are delivered.

Good app developers pay attention to user experience (UX). Mobile apps and ubiquitous computing expand learning opportunities but they also raise expectations for learner experience (LX). Note to high schools and post secondary providers–time for an upgrade.